NHL superstar Ovechkin ‘was asked’ to film Putin ad, team says

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Published: 2026-09-17T00:15:54.913Z • Permanent link

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been embroiled in a controversy surrounding a potential advertisement featuring NHL superstar Alexander Ovechkin. According to sources close to the team, Ovechkin was "asked" to participate in the ad, but it remains unclear whether he has actually agreed to do so. The advertisement, which has not been officially released, is believed to promote Russian energy interests and may have been conceived by the Kremlin as part of its efforts to boost public support for the war in Ukraine.

Details of the proposed ad are scarce, but it is thought to feature Ovechkin, who has been a vocal supporter of Russia, and other prominent figures from the world of sports and entertainment. The ad is believed to have been planned for release in the coming weeks, although it is unclear whether it will ultimately go ahead. Ovechkin's team has thus far declined to comment on the matter, fueling speculation about the nature of his involvement.

Ovechkin's involvement in the ad has sparked widespread concern among human rights activists and critics of Putin's regime. The Russian government has long been accused of using sports stars and other prominent figures to promote its interests and distract from human rights abuses. Ovechkin's participation in the ad would be seen by many as a tacit endorsement of Putin's policies, and could damage his reputation among fans and sponsors.

The potential involvement of Ovechkin in the advertisement has significant implications for the sports world and beyond. Many of Ovechkin's sponsors, including major brands such as Chevrolet and Wilson, have been critical of the Russian government's actions in Ukraine and have called for a boycott of Russian products. If Ovechkin were to participate in the ad, it could damage these brands' reputations and lead to a loss of revenue.

Furthermore, the controversy surrounding Ovechkin's potential involvement in the ad highlights the complex and often fraught relationships between sports, politics, and commerce. As the global economy becomes increasingly intertwined, the lines between these spheres are becoming increasingly blurred. The consequences of Ovechkin's involvement in the ad could be far-reaching, extending beyond the sports world and into the broader economy and global politics.

The potential impact on research communities and markets is also significant. Many analysts have been studying the effects of sports sponsorships on brand reputation and consumer behavior. If Ovechkin were to participate in the ad, it could provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of sports sponsorship and the ways in which brands navigate the increasingly complex global landscape.